Pittsburgh Steelers Wide Receiver George Pickens Criticized by NFL Legend Terrell Owens
After the Steelers lost three straight games, including a lopsided loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day, wide receiver George Pickens faced scrutiny for his lack of production. Following a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury, Pickens was expected to have an impact against the defending champions, but he only had three receptions for 50 yards.
Hall of Famer Terrell Owens echoed the sentiments of teammate Cam Heyward, saying that when 10 guys do their job but one guy doesn’t, they are screwed. Owens seemed to be referencing a play at the end of the first quarter in which Pickens was supposed to run another route, but did not, leading to an interception by the Chiefs.
Pickens’ lack of production was particularly evident on the play, in which veteran quarterback Russell Wilson acknowledged that Pickens was supposed to go vertical but did not. Wilson took ownership of the mistake, saying it was on him and that he was trying to give tight end Pat Freiermuth a chance.
The Steelers have lost three games in 11 days, and coach Mike Tomlin has said that the team needs to own its mistakes. Owens’ criticism is just the latest in a chorus of voices pointing out the importance of Pickens’ role on the team, and the impact his lack of production can have on the game.